ARM Architecture begin AU$150m upgrade of Sydney Opera House
by Stu Robarts | 04 Feb 2020
ARM Architecture have begun work on a AU$150m (US$101m, €91m, £77m), two-year renovation of the Sydney Opera House that will better equip it for performances, enhance its acoustics, improve accessibility and create a safer working environment.
The project is part of the 10-year Decade of Renewal capital works programme, via which AU$275m (US$185m, €167m, £142m) of investment will transform the Opera House ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2023.
The venue's acoustics have been a longstanding issue, but consultation with its orchestras and choirs and testing prototype solutions with acousticians Mϋller-BBM is said to have resulted in very positive feedback.
New above-stage reflectors will replace the current acrylic ‘doughnuts’, acoustic diffusion panels will be added to the venue’s timber box fronts and a new automated draping system will make it easier to configure the hall for classical to amplified performances.
Elsewhere, a lower stage and new automated stage risers will improve sightlines, a new flying system for lighting and scenery will cater for larger-scale, more ambitious performances than are currently possible and a new lift and passageway will improve accessibility.
ARM Architecture Sydney opera house Sydney Opera House
Testing prototype solutions with acousticians Mϋller-BBM is said to have resulted in very positive feedback Credit: ARM Architecture
A new automated draping system will make it easier to configure the hall for classical to amplified performances Credit: ARM Architecture
A new lift will improve accessibility Credit: ARM Architecture
A new passageway will also improve accessibility at the venue Credit: ARM Architecture
ARM Architecture have begun work on a AU$150m (US$101m, €91m, £77m), two-year renovation of the Sydney Opera House that will better equip it for performances, enhance its acoustics, improve accessibility and create a safer working environment. The project is part of the 10-year Decade of Renewal capital works programme, via which AU$275m (US$185m, €167m, £142m) of investment will transform the Opera House ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2023. The
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"Culture is the beating heart of this project"
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